Scott Boland will make his long-awaited return to Test cricket

In the Australian starting lineup for the second Test, which starts on Friday, Boland, who hasn't participated in Test cricket since the 2023 Ashes in England, will take Josh Hazlewood's position due to injury. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh keeps his position despite a niggle from the series opener, while Hazlewood was ruled out of the pink-ball Test due to a slight side strain. Marsh, who is having trouble getting over back stiffness following the chilly September tour of the UK, has been given the all-clear to bowl, according to Cummins.

The Western Australian is certain that the Allan Border Medallist will deliver when called upon, despite the fact that he has yet to send down a delivery in the nets. “We made the call with the medical team over the last couple of days to give him another couple days off bowling,” Cummins said.